Personal Care Products May Expose Kids to Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals

A new study published in Environmental Health Perspectives reveals that personal care products like lotions, hair oils and conditioners may be exposing children to higher levels of phthalates. Known endocrine disruptors, phthalates can interfere with hormones, which play a crucial role in children’s growth and development.

What The Study Found

The study examined data from 630 children aged 4 to 8, collecting urine samples and gathering surveys from parents about any hair and skin products they had applied to their child within the past 24 hours. The results showed that children who had recently used more personal care products, particularly lotions, sunscreens and oils, had higher levels of phthalates in their system. The findings also revealed that phthalate exposure varies by racial and ethnic groups, with Black children showing the highest levels of exposure.

Over the past few years, several discussions around phthalates have arisen, particularly regarding their presence in plastic packaging and the possibility of the chemical leeching out into foods. This study is significant because it not only highlights a new source of phthalate exposure but also focuses on this exposure in children. The research suggests that lotions, hair conditioners, and other items may contribute as a “hidden source” to children’s phthalate exposure as well.

Why Might Phthalate Exposure Be a Problem?

Although phthalates don’t stay in the body for long, researchers are raising concerns over the potential long-term effects of frequent exposure—especially during critical developmental stages. Research into the effects of phthalates is in the early stages and the evidence of potential harms is not yet conclusive. That being said, several previous studies have established a correlation between high phthalate exposure with long-term effects on children, including impaired brain development, behavioral problems and even earlier onset of puberty in girls.

What Parents Can Do

While more research is needed, parents can take steps to reduce their children’s exposure to phthalates:

• Check product labels: Look for “phthalate-free” on personal care products.
• Use helpful apps: Apps like Think Dirty, YUKA and the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Healthy Living app allow parents to scan product barcodes and get instant information about harmful ingredients.
• Simplify routines: Limit the number of skincare and haircare products used on your child.
• Consult safe product databases: Use resources like the EWG’s Skin Deep database to identify safer options.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.